Bangor International June 2016

Bangor International June 2016

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Ffriddoedd Village A room in our student halls of residences is guaranteed to all first-years who apply before the deadline. For undergraduate students it is 31 July.

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All our accommodation is self-catered and the majority of our halls are en-suite.

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Bangor University begins research in Virtual Joint Centres with Brazil and China to improve nitrogen use in Agriculture Bangor University has collaborated with Chinese and Brazilian Research Institutions for many years, e.g. through joint PhD studentships, research projects and members of its School of Environment Natural Resources and Geography staff being appointed as Visiting Professors in some of their research institutions.

The new research programme will explore how nitrogen use efficiency can be improved through use of novel fertiliser products, advanced livestock slurry processing technologies (including anaerobic digestion, slurry separation and slurry acidification), use of innovative soil and plant sensors, and trialling new, more efficient crop and grass varieties. Much of this research will take place at Bangor University’s, Henfaes Research Centre, and the University will received £950,000 over the next three years to support the projects.

Ultimately, the researchers will inform Chinese and Brazilian farmers of strategies that deliver sustainable intensification of agriculture through guidance documents and decision support systems.

Professor Dave Chadwick, who www.bangor.ac.uk/international

The NUCLEUS team in Sao Paolo leads the Bangor input to the UKChina Centre, said: “Despite the range of farming systems between the different countries, it is clear that we all share the same goal of sustainably improving nitrogen use efficiency. By sharing our collective expertise, methods of working and research facilities we aim to provide the understanding that underpins the more timely delivery of sustainable nitrogen management practices. Moreover, the Centres provide unique opportunities for staff exchange, meaning that we can train the next generation of researchers.”

Read the full story here: www.bangor.ac.uk/news/research/ bangor-university-begins-researchin-virtual-joint-centres-with-braziland-china-to-improve-nitrogen-use-in -agriculture-27493

Bangor Science project shortlisted for EU Award

PLA obtained from bread waste BREAD4PLA, a green science and technology project in which Bangor University’s research played a significant role, has been shortlisted as one of the best 25 LIFE Environment Projects delivered in 2015.

Researchers from AIMPLAS, Technological Institute of Plastics, Spain; the Biocomposites Centre and School of Chemistry from

Bangor University; ATB, the Agricultural Engineering Institute, Germany and CETECE, the Cereals Technology Centre, Spain have successfully developed a new biodegradable packaging for bakery products from the wastes generated by the same industry they come from.

Dr Viacheslav Tverezovskiy, Biocomposites Centre, explains:

“Wastes from bread crusts, sliced bread and sponge cakes underwent fermentation and enzymatic treatment to obtain lactic acid. Lactic acid was polymerised to a biodegradable polymer, PLA. The latter was processed by the current extrusion technique to produce a packaging film with excellent barrier properties, suitable for different products of the bakery sector, even for packing pasta and sweets. The new packaging materials are fully biodegradable and compostable.”

LIFE is the EU’s financial instrument supporting environmental and nature conservation projects throughout the EU, as well as in some candidate, acceding and neighbouring countries. Since 1992, LIFE has co-financed some 3506 projects, contributing approximately €2.5 billion to the protection of the environment.

Student receives royal congratulations Dr Taghreed Alnusaire, from Saudi Arabia completed her PhD studies in Biological Sciences at Bangor University this year and is a Masters graduate from Al Jouf University in Saudi Arabia.

Taghreed has formally received a congratulations certificate from HRH Prince Mohammed bin Nawaf Al Saud, the Ambassador of the Kingdon of Saudi Arabia to the United Kingdom for an ‘Execellent Academic Performance’ during her studies here at Bangor University.

The Recognition of Achievement Certificate is awarded following an

outstanding academic progress report which was supplied by Taghreed’s Academic supervisor at Bangor University - Professor Deri Tomos.

During her studies Taghreed also published scientific research in the African Journal of Biotechnology in 2014 and also participated in The certificate translates to: an International Conference, “I am happy to present to you my ‘The Society for Experimental thankfulness and appreciation for your Biology’ (SEB) at Manchester Scientific Achievement and Excellence, University in July 2014. wishing you further progress, success, continuation of contributing to your Scientific and Practical life for the service of your valued religion and country.”

Bangor University wishes Taghreed all the best with her future career.

The Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award 2016 Two students from the School of Environment, Natural Resources and Georgraphy have been awarded ‘The Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award 2016’... expenses.

Ellinor, who is currently studying at the University of British Columbia (UBC) as part of a one-year exchange program, said, "this Award will give me the incredible opportunity to explore Canada in a diverse, forestry context. My year at UBC has filled me with enthusiasm for this amazing country and I'm very excited to spend another three months amongst its awe-inspiring forests and friendly people”.

award. They are tremendous ambassadors both for forestry and for Bangor University; the opportunities that this award will afford them will further help their development as young forestry professionals and we look forward to learning from them once they have completed their internships in Canada and return to the UK.”

Nicholas, who has since completed his MSc Environmental Forestry degree has started his own woodland management consultancy company, commented:

Nicholas Hill Nicholas Hill (MSc Environmental Forestry, 2015) and Ellinor Dobie, (currently in year 2 of BSc Forestry) have been awarded the prestigious Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award 2016.

Endorsed by HRH The Prince of Wales, and delivered in partnership by the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF-IFC), the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF), and the Duchy of Cornwall, and sponsored by TD Bank, the Award recognizes young forestry professionals in Canada and the United Kingdom who possess a dedication to sustainable forestry and the skills and aptitude to become our future forest leaders.

Award winners are offered summer employment in Canada, in addition to a generous bursary to help cover travel and living

"Having received the Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award I am thrilled to have the opportunity to travel to Canada and explore a forestry industry which plays such a prominent role in a nation’s culture and economy. In recent weeks I have had some memorable wildlife encounters whilst surveying forests in the South of England. The thought of undertaking similar work in Canada’s vast forested landscapes, among its rich array of iconic species is an exciting prospect. I look forward to gaining some valuable experience and skills this summer and to making professional transatlantic links which I hope will continue to enrich my career beyond."

Reflecting on their achievements, James Walmsley, Lecturer in Forestry at Bangor University, said,

“Ellinor and Nicholas have done so well to both gain this prestigious

Ellinor Dobie

More details on the ‘Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award’ can be found here: www.charteredforesters.org/ed ucation-careers-and-cpd/ forest-leadership-award/

Research News Scientists assess hydration potential of different drinks

Scientists at the universities of Stirling, Loughborough and Bangor are calling for the creation of a beverage hydration index to help people understand how different drinks can keep you hydrated.

A recent research trial which tested the effects of 13 commonly consumed drinks on urine output and fluid balance, found several fluids were retained in the body for the same time, or longer, than water.

Professor Neil Walsh of the University School of Sport, Health & Exercise Sciences, explained: “Many people believe that drinking fluids such as tea and coffee causes them to become dehydrated but we found that when drunk in normal amounts and frequency these drinks do not stimulate any additional fluid loss compared to drinking water.”

The liquids consumed included still water, fizzy water, whole milk, skimmed milk, cola, diet cola, hot tea, cold tea, coffee, lager, orange juice, an oral rehydration solution, and a sports drink.

Read the full story here: www.bangor.ac.uk/news/ research/scientists-assesshydration-potential-ofdifferent-drinks-27469

Bangor University researchers on their best behaviour techniques

The Wales Centre for Behaviour Change has helped numerous companies and organisations to adopt behaviour change techniques, increasing the number of people using hand sanitizer before entering a local hospital ward by putting “footprints” on the floor, for example

Behaviour change is being used in many areas of life to encourage us to change our actions in some way - often without our even realising that we’re being influenced.

A major Festival of Behaviour Change showcasing the latest thinking in applied behaviour change science ran for 2 weeks in May at Bangor University.

The festival organised by Bangor University’s Wales Centre for Behaviour Change, our renowned School of Psychology and the Wales Audit Office, along with other organisations interested in behaviour change science.

Behaviour change is widely recognised as an essential tool for public services and organisations responding to the considerable social and demographic changes we are experiencing in Wales and beyond.

The Wales Centre for Behaviour Change has helped numerous companies and organisations to adopt behaviour change techniques, increasing the number

of people using hand sanitizer before entering a local hospital ward by putting “footprints” on the floor, for example.

The centre has used simple behaviour change ‘nudges’ to encourage people to use the stairs in a building instead of taking the lift, or to lead people to the fruit counter in a shop - and increasing the fresh fruit sales in the process.

Head of Bangor's School of Psychology, Prof John Parkinson commented “We had such an exciting set of talks and events across the two weeks that there was something for everyone.

“We brought the leading experts in their field to the festival so people could hear the ‘state of the art’ and get the opportunity to exchange ideas with researchers and practitioners alike.”

Dementia Awareness Week also occured during the festival with talks and workshops from leading academics about living with dementia.

Royal invites for Bangor Academics Bangor academics earn royal invites to contribute at major events

Dr Gareth Williams

Two of our Bangor University academics have received royal invitations to take part in important and influential events over the coming weeks.

Dr Gareth Williams of the University’s School of Ocean Sciences will be one of a small number of speakers, and will share his expert opinion on Pacific coral reefs at an International Symposium: ‘Rethinking the Future for Coral Reefs’, convened by the Earl of Wessex, Patron of The Central Caribbean Marine Institute.

Also, Bangor University ’s Prof Andrew Pullin is attending a Royal Colloquium ‘Environmental reality: Rethinking the options’ at the invitation of King Carl XVI Gustav of Sweden.

Dr Williams will be among 25 contributors including directors of foundations interested in coral reef and ocean protection, scholars, media representatives and heads of state contributing to the International Symposium on June 6-7, which aims to improve policies, management and governance, so the world’s coral reefs may be better protected.

Coral reefs provide a valuable food source, coastal protection and

Prof. Andrew Pullin

income from tourism to millions of people, especially in developing countries, so their protection is paramount. Dr Williams is among leaders identified as having the potential to create a transformative plan for reversing reefs’ decline and to support societies that depend on Dr Williams commented: “I’m delighted to have received this invitation to share my knowledge so we can work together to ensure the survival of these vital resources.”

Prof Pullin of the Centre for Evidence-Based Conservation at the School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography is attending the Royal Colloquium ‘Environmental reality: Rethinking the options’.

Prof Colin Jago, Dean of Bangor University’s College of Natural Resources said: “These contributions from Prof Pullin and Dr Williams show how our internationally-recognised research at Bangor University is making a major contribution to the science and policy needed for the conservation of vulnerable ecosystems impacted by human activity on a global scale”.

Research News Alliance to strengthen forestry research in Wales Two organisations with long records of expertise in forestry education and research will be collaborating more closely with the move of Forest Research’s Welsh office to Bangor University’s School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography, which is the home of forestry in the University.

Forest Research is the research agency of the Forestry Commission. Its Head in Wales, Tom Jenkins, leads a team of researchers based at a number of locations across Wales, all of whom work directly with colleagues based at Forest Research’s other centres in England and Scotland as well as in partnership with Natural Resources Wales, Welsh Government policymakers and academic and research institutions across Wales.

John Healey, Professor of Forest Sciences at Bangor, University heads a team of 11 academic staff specialising in forestry and agroforestry. John commented:

“There are only a small number of institutions in the UK with research expertise relevant to forestry, so it is important that we work closely together. I am delighted with the success of our recent collaborations with Forest Research, including joint projects on the modelling of tree regeneration in continuous cover forestry; the bacteria causing acute oak decline; and modelling the economics of tree diseases, which pose such a large threat to woodlands in Britain.”

Research News Bangor Science without New study to assess safe staffing levels on hospital wards

image courtesy of University of Southampton

Bangor University researchers will be working with the University of Southampton on a new study to assess the implementation, impact and costs of safe staffing policies for nursing in acute trusts.

Researchers will ask 155 Trusts in England to evaluate safe staffing initiatives including their own response rate to the issue.

The study will be led by Jane Ball and Professor Peter Griffiths at the University of Southampton, with collaboration from Bangor University’s Professor Jo Rycroft-Malone, Pro Vice-chancellor and Professor Christopher Burton from the School of Healthcare Sciences.

The study, funded by the Department of Health Policy Research Programme (PRP), examine in detail how safe staffing policies have been implemented, how implementation has varied, what changes in staffing levels are observed, and whether observed staffing changes are associated with changes in staff and patient outcomes.

Borders student presents research at prestigious Oxbridge conference Emily Ane Araujo Santana is a Science without Borders student from Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana in Brazil and is spending an year at Bangor University studying Biomedical Sciences. She has recently presented her research at the 5th Oxbridge Conference on Brazilian Studies, which is a joint venture by Oxford and Cambridge universities.

Emily beat off stiff competition from other students to be awarded the opportunity to present her research that is focused on sexually transmitted diseases in Brazil.

The Oxbridge Conference on Brazilian Studies had its successful debut in 2012, and has been organised every year by the Cambridge University and Oxford University Brazilian Societies (CUBS and OUBS) since then.

The Oxbridge Conference on Brazilian Studies is a multi-disciplinary event that brings together scholars from the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities to discuss the potential effects of their research to Brazil.

Talking about the conference Emily said: “The experience was scary because I was the only undergraduate student presenting work there, however, it was an amazing and good opportunity to practice my

Emily Ane Araujo Santana

English skills, which I’ve learned here, and share with people an important topic about my home state in Brazil.”

Bangor University is renowned for the high quality of student support available to students and Emily is adamant that she couldn't have achieved this recognition for her research prowess without the support she received.

“I would like to say thank you for all of the support I received from, Jenny Byast, my presentation was so much better with her point of view, and Anthony Brooks (ELCOS teacher) who spent hours with me improving my performance for the oral presentation.”

Entrepreneurial students selected for Santander Universities competition Entrepreneurial students pitched their ideas against each other to be selected to represent Bangor University at the UK Santander Universities Entrepreneurship Awards.

Having presented their ideas or fledgling businesses to the judges and responded to some hard questioning, the successful Bangor University students will now be submitted for consideration for the final shortlist to win the UK Awards, which offer cash prizes of up to £15,000, mentoring and start-up support.

Representing her idea was Suita Diaz of the University’s Business School. Suita comes from a family of coffee growers and traders in her native Honduras and is passionate about her model of trading coffee directly to British coffee drinkers, which she hopes will directly benefit the Honduran growers.

Twenty five year old Suita is studying an MA in Business and Marketing at Bangor University through a Chevening Scholarship.

She has graduated from Universidad Tecnológica Centroamericana, UNITEC (Honduras).

She says: “Coffee is a source for changing people’s lives as I have witnessed myself. The main purpose and driver of this venture is to create a business that will promote the improvement of the livelihood of the farmers allowing them to farm in a sustainable way and of course, will let UK coffee

Suita Diaz lovers enjoy our tasty Honduran coffee!”

Chair of the Judging Panel, Vice Chancellor Professor John G Hughes said: “Once again our students presented us with some hard decisions, as the standard of all the presentations was very high.

We encourage an entrepreneurial spirit among our students and taking part in the various entrepreneurship activities provided by the university enables our students to hone some vital business skills which will may well prove useful at a later stage in their careers.”

Each winning category was awarded £200 and will receive further mentoring support to develop their business planning.

The Bangor University stage of the Santander Entrepreneurship Awards is part funded by the Welsh Government to support delivery of the Youth Entrepreneurship Strategy (YES) for Wales.

Research News World record semiconductor performance set to enable the ‘internet of things’

SmartKem's circuits undergo testing at the School of Electronic Engineering Flexible electronics for the ‘internet of things’ are now a reality thanks to new technology created by North Wales company SmartKem Ltd, with the help of scientists at Bangor University Scientists at the School of Electronic Engineering have been testing SmartKem’s semiconductor material truFLEX® and have demonstrated operating in electronic form at the frequencies required to make high-speed flexible electronics a reality.

This result demonstrates that the historic barrier of transistor speed, to realising fast, solution-printed electronics no longer exists and opens the door to a wide range of exciting application possibilities.

Read the full story here: www.bangor.ac.uk/news/ research/world-record-semiconductor-performance-set-toenable-the-internet-of-things27186

www.bangor.ac.uk/international

Karen Jones

Ali Khan

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International students in the UK

Upcoming Visits for 2016 We shall be visiting the following countries between June and July 2016: Cameroon - June

Hong Kong - July

Visit our country visits page for more information:www.bangor.ac.uk/international/visits.php

Please do contact us if you would like one of our international oďŹƒcers to visit your school or if you need any advice.

W: www.bangor.ac.uk/international E: international@bangor.ac.uk

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For further details about country visits please contact the relevant Country Manager.